STPM Biology Structure of Cell and Organelle (Part 17)

Vacuole

Distribution:

• Found in plant cells.
• Animal cells do not contain vacuoles.

Structure:

• Varies in shape and sizes
• Each vacuole in bounded by a membrane called tonoplast.
• Vacuole is filled with fluid that consist of amino acids, sugars, minerals, waste products and pigments.

Structure of vacuole

Functions:

• Provides turgor pressure to support cell.
• Temporary storage site for amino acids, sugars and waste products.
• Important role in the growth of plant cells.
• As protection. Vacuoles of some plants contain toxins which deter animals from eating the plants.